[Analysis of the most appropriate surgical treatment for acute cholecystitis by applying the RAND/UCLA method].

Introduction: Acute cholecystitis (AC) is a common indication for cholecystectomy. Local circumstances and certain patient characteristics lead to high failure rates and complications in laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC), and despite the experience gained, we still do not have a detailed list of indications which could minimise them.

Material And Method: We used the RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method (RAM) to evaluate 2 options, LC and open cholecystectomy (OC).

Appropriate management of common bile duct stones: a RAND Corporation/UCLA Appropriateness Method statistical analysis.

Background: Bile duct stones affect 10% of patients who undergo a cholecystectomy and therefore represent a major health problem. Laparoscopic common bile duct exploration, endoscopic sphincterotomy, and open surgical choledocholithotomy are the three available methods for dealing with choledocholithiasis. Though many trials and reviews have compared all three strategies, a list of indications for defined patient profiles is lacking.

Assessing the appropriate use of laparoscopic surgery for hepatobiliary diseases.

Background: The range of indications for laparoscopic surgery has widened since it was first introduced. The aim of the present study was to develop standards for the appropriate use of laparoscopic surgery in patients with choledocholithiasis or cholelithiasis.

Method: We conducted a study following the RAND appropriateness method (RAM) to develop criteria for hepatobiliary laparoscopy.

[Experience with the Bogota bag technique for temporary abdominal closure].

Introduction: The Bogota bag technique is a reliable method for open abdominal closure. The aim of this study was to describe our experience with this technique.

Material And Method: We retrospectively evaluated our experience with the Bogota Bag technique between January 2000 and March 2006.